Exeter start bi-centenary back in Premier

»»THERE’S a big season in prospect for Exeter in more ways than one. It’s their first season back in the Tolchards Devon League Premier Division after a two-year ‘sabbatical’ playing A Division cricket.

And this summer is Exeter’s bi-centenary, when their 200th anniversary celebrations will include a showcase game against the star-studded Lashings World XI, a side comprising former Test players from the not-so-distant past.

Exeter’s elevation back to the Premier Division was the incentive Fin Hill and Oli Gribble needed to re-join the club from Taunton Deane and Bridgwater respectively.

Ben Green, the Somerset all-rounder, who was with Exeter before turning professional, has also re-registered. How much Exeter see of him will depend on his Somerset obligations. Alex Haywood, who bats, has re-joined after another stint with Chudleigh.

Josh Nott, a batting all-rounder, has made the switch from Torquay in search of Premier cricket.

Joe Gore, the Exeter captain, spent the UK winter in Melbourne playing for Carnegie in the Southern Bayside Competition. He talentspotted Eddie Steele while in Australia and brought him back for a summer at the County Ground.

“I strongly believe Eddie will pose a threat with the bat this year – and he is a solid keeper,” said Gore.

Also back from a winter Down Under is Exeter all-rounder Billy Buckingham.

“We are very excited to be back in the Premier Division and believe we have what it takes to be competitive and effective at that level,” said Gore.

Exeter’s ofirst game is away to fellow Sidmouth, who celebrated their bi-centenary last summer.

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On-loan goalkeeper Vil Silisalo was a six-time winner at Exeter City’s awards night – where he was named Supporters’ Player of the Season, before heading back to Aston Villa